Stories of Korea’s National Treasures 49
Photo Credit : Cultural Heritage Administration of Korea
Stone Seated Bodhisattva of Woljeongsa Temple
(Pyeongchang, Gangwon-do)
🏯 1. The Guardian of the Pagoda
In front of the magnificent Nine-story Octagonal Stone Pagoda at Woljeongsa Temple sits a serene stone figure — the Stone Seated Bodhisattva, a masterpiece of Buddhist sculpture from the Unified Silla period (8th–9th century).
Calmly facing the pagoda, the Bodhisattva rests in meditation, as if in eternal dialogue with the tower it guards.
This statue represents not only artistic mastery but also the Silla ideal of wisdom grounded in compassion — the spirit of stillness that protects enlightenment.
Bathed in mountain mist and temple light, the figure seems to watch over both the sacred and the human worlds.
🪨 2. Structure and Artistic Beauty
Carved from a single block of fine granite, the statue measures about 1.2 meters in height and depicts the Bodhisattva seated cross-legged upon a lotus pedestal.
The facial expression is gentle yet contemplative — the eyes half-closed in deep meditation, the lips curved in a faint, knowing smile.
The body is full and balanced, conveying both spiritual calm and human warmth.
The robe flows naturally over the shoulders in soft, rhythmic folds, and the elaborate crown is decorated with delicate motifs, though much of its detail has weathered with time.
Despite this, the sculpture’s overall form remains clear and harmonious, reflecting the refined simplicity and realism that defined late Silla Buddhist art.
🌄 3. The Spirit of Manjusri
According to Buddhist tradition, this Bodhisattva is believed to represent Manjusri (Munsu-bosal), the Bodhisattva of Wisdom, who is said to dwell on Mount Odaesan, where Woljeongsa is located.
Manjusri embodies the light of insight — wisdom that is not distant or abstract, but compassionate and human.
His serene posture before the pagoda symbolizes the unity of wisdom (Bodhisattva) and truth (Pagoda) — a perfect harmony between understanding and enlightenment.
Visitors often feel a quiet reverence standing before him, as though the mountains themselves have taken form to teach patience and balance.
🌿 4. Preservation and Legacy
The Stone Seated Bodhisattva of Woljeongsa Temple remains remarkably well-preserved despite more than a thousand years of exposure to the elements.
Its proportions, carving technique, and emotional depth make it one of the finest examples of Silla stone sculpture.
Designated National Treasure No. 49, it is inseparable from the nearby Nine-story Pagoda (National Treasure No. 48) — together forming one of Korea’s most harmonious architectural and sculptural ensembles.
The Bodhisattva’s quiet gaze continues to inspire monks, travelers, and artists alike —
a reminder that true wisdom requires no words, only presence.
💬 5. A Warm Reflection
“This Bodhisattva does not teach through speech,
but through stillness.
Its eyes see beyond form,
and in its silence,
one feels the peace that wisdom brings.”
📌 Notice
The National Treasure number indicates the order of designation, not a ranking of value.
For more information, please visit the 👉National Heritage Portal